Prior to studying the MSc Healthcare Management course at Edinburgh Napier University, I was working as a Healthcare Manager at one of three government-owned hospitals in Nassau, The Bahamas. I chose to study this course due to my unwavering desire to earn a master’s degree as well as my desire for advancement within the organisation I am presently employed.
“Edinburgh Napier University not only matched these criterion's but exceeded them from the various online testimonies of international students globally”
After applying and successfully obtaining a full in-service award the next step was to look for a university, preferably in the UK as it was noted by previous UK scholars that the healthcare studies closely correlate with the healthcare system in The Bahamas. Following application and acceptance to a few UK universities I had to choose which one best suited my expectations as well as outlined courses that identified with my line of duties. Edinburgh Napier University not only matched these criterion's but exceeded them from the various online testimonies of international students globally.
There are so many highlights of studying at Edinburgh Napier University that I really do not know where to begin. One of the highlights that stands out the most was the support and warm welcome received from the Programme Lead, Patricia Perry, and her team. Patricia, along with her team made me feel comfortable from the day we met online up to the end of my studies. During my first trimester I firmly believe that their assistance helped me to achieve distinctions for my first three courses as well as others in second trimester. This is not to suggest that it was easy but shows with support and encouragement you can exceed your own expectations even after being out of the classroom for over 12 years.
“One of the highlights that stands out the most was the support and warm welcome received from the Programme Lead and her team.”
During my studies I served as Class Representative. This gave me the opportunity to work with the Programme Lead as well as represent and build lasting relationships with students from all over the world. In fact, I am looking forward to some of them visiting my country in the not too distance future.
As an international student the support was immeasurable. The university provides things like library training workshops, academic writing skills assistance, English language workshops, tier 4 visa assistance, IT assistance and one-on-one meetings with lecturers to ensure you are getting the support you need.
I believe my biggest skills gain came from Clinical Governance. This course was an eye-opener and underscores how healthcare professionals should behave, and more importantly how patients entrusted in our care should be treated. All aspects of creating a patient-centred environment were covered. Secondly, the health and social course which examines and makes comparison of healthcare services offered in different countries and the UK was very interesting. Thirdly, the Human Resource Management aspects added to the skills needed from a management perspective. 
From an academic perspective, critical thinking will forever be etched in my mind. I never knew how important this skill was and the value it brings for each module. This has not only improved my thinking but also improved my academic writing skills.
“The university’s accommodation was uniquely considered for a student's life away from home and made to feel comfortable and safe at all times.”
I had a great student experience living in Edinburgh whilst I studied. Edinburgh is not short of anything. I enjoyed taking rides on the bus system. The bus app was easy to follow and good to help you find your way around the city. The city life is truly remarkable, brand name shops, eateries, and parks to name a few are all there. The prices not bad either. Pubs and restaurants are unlimited. The campus life is what I will miss the most. Here you catch up with classmates, can use the state-of-the-art library at all campuses, study in quiet personal space or private group study rooms, the ambience and taking advantage of all the amenities on offer are matchless. The university’s accommodation was uniquely considered for a student's life away from home and made to feel comfortable and safe at all times.
I would absolutely recommend this course as it offers a well-rounded curriculum for persons interested in pursuing healthcare management studies. My key piece of advice for anyone wishing to study this course would be discipline. The course can become overwhelming if you do not plan your study patterns. Balancing your study and fun life is imperative to maintain a good mental balance.
Following completion of this course it is my plan to share my experience with co-workers and demonstrate my acquired skills. Also, to be promoted as a result of achieving my Masters.